If You're Listening
ABC listen
The world is on fire. There's a coup. Inflation is through the roof, and AI is taking our jobs. What does it all mean? Each week, Matt Bevan explains the biggest story in world news while hiding in his basement from assassins and authoritarian regimes.
Recent episodes include an exploration of the relationship between India and China, a closer look at the Saudi Arabian city of NEOM, the conflict in the Middle East, the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, and Ukraine's incursions into Vladimir Putin's Russia. Matt Bevan draws connections between stories from the past and the events of the present to help listeners understand world news and international affairs.
The podcast also features series about big moments in world news; previous series have focused on the United States presidential election, the United Kingdom's 14 years of Conservative Party leadership, Donald Trump's relationship with Russia, Donald Trump's presidency and promise to Make America Great Again, the Mueller Report, Vladimir Putin's scheme to destroy western democracies, how the relationship between Australia and China came to the verge of collapse, and Australia's turbulent history with climate change.
There's a new episode of If You're Listening every Thursday.
Recent episodes include an exploration of the relationship between India and China, a closer look at the Saudi Arabian city of NEOM, the conflict in the Middle East, the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, and Ukraine's incursions into Vladimir Putin's Russia. Matt Bevan draws connections between stories from the past and the events of the present to help listeners understand world news and international affairs.
The podcast also features series about big moments in world news; previous series have focused on the United States presidential election, the United Kingdom's 14 years of Conservative Party leadership, Donald Trump's relationship with Russia, Donald Trump's presidency and promise to Make America Great Again, the Mueller Report, Vladimir Putin's scheme to destroy western democracies, how the relationship between Australia and China came to the verge of collapse, and Australia's turbulent history with climate change.
There's a new episode of If You're Listening every Thursday.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 23, 2025 • 23min
Can the US Air Force bust Matt’s studio bunker?
Emma Shortis, Director of the Australia Institute's International and Security Affairs Program, brings a wealth of knowledge on global security and international relations. She discusses the recent U.S. military actions in the Israel-Iran conflict and their potential ripple effects on Middle Eastern geopolitics. The conversation also dives into Trump's complex foreign policy stance and the parallels between the current situation and the Iraq War, highlighting the need for Australia to reassess its international alliances.
7 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 24min
Have ICE protests cracked Trump?
The podcast delves into the rising violence from anti-ICE protests challenging Trump's immigration policies. It highlights heartfelt stories like that of John Paulo, who fights for his son’s release from detention. Misconceptions about asylum seekers are tackled with humor and critical analysis, alongside reflections on the historical context of the Mariel Boatlift. The discussion also covers wrongful deportations, legal complexities, and the perseverance of activists advocating for immigrant rights amid a contentious political climate.
Jun 16, 2025 • 27min
Will any Prime Minister “Love Actually” Donald Trump?
In a gripping discussion, Dr. Emma Shortis, Director of the Australia Institute’s International Security Affairs Program and author of 'After America', delves into the chaotic world of Trump-era politics. She reflects on recent protests against ICE deportations and the impact of international agreements like AUKUS. The conversation tackles the controversial consequences of policy failures on public service jobs and highlights the alarming cuts to U.S. health research funding. Emma also draws intriguing parallels between politics and the film 'Love Actually', speculating on future bold leaders.
Jun 11, 2025 • 22min
Trump and Elon's honeymoon is over
The camaraderie between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has dramatically crumbled. This shift coincides with protests and legal challenges facing Trump's administration. As Trump reaches 100 days in office, riot incidents and fiscal policies spark urgent discussions. The podcast dives into the financial fallout from a massive defense bill and critiques Musk's business influence on politics. Amidst chaos, the enduring strength of American institutions is explored, highlighting the complexities of governance in today's climate.
Jun 9, 2025 • 20min
Skunk oil and the butcher girl
Kara Jensen-Mackinnon, supervising producer and article swapper with Matt Bevan from Modern Weekly News Magazine, dives into a trove of oddities from 1940s Australia. They discuss an 18-year-old girl running her father's butcher shop and connect it to fluoride research. The laughter continues with tales of a poultry farmer giving metal glasses to chickens and a crocodile hatching in a lawyer's office. They also reminisce about the decline of the skunk oil industry and the whimsical smuggling of Australian bees to Russia. It's a delightful blend of history and absurdity!
8 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 21min
RFK Jr v Fluoride
Fluoride in drinking water has a storied past and is hailed as a major health advancement, yet it faces strong opposition and misinformation. The podcast explores how Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the Trump Administration have reignited anti-fluoride movements, achieving bans in states like Utah and Florida. It also dives into broader issues, like the interplay between government policies, public health attitudes, and environmental concerns, questioning the future of initiatives like net zero emissions in the energy sector.
Jun 2, 2025 • 24min
How a world leader kept a secret from 1.4 billion people
Avani Dias, an ABC journalist and former South Asia correspondent, reveals the surprising truth about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's secret marriage. Modi has kept his wife hidden for decades, contrasting sharply with his public persona as a bachelor. The discussion uncovers his early life choices, the interplay of tradition and modernity, and the implications of his marital status on his political image. They also touch on his controversial social policies, including the uniform civil code, and the complex issues surrounding Kashmir, reflecting the tensions in India's nationalist politics.
8 snips
May 28, 2025 • 25min
Why Pakistan fights India
Tensions between Pakistan and India remain high despite a temporary ceasefire. The military's influence on Pakistan's politics is profound, intertwining national identity with civilian governance. The podcast delves into Kashmir's symbolic importance in the conflict and the role of military leadership in escalating hostilities. It also touches on how cricket diplomacy plays a surprising role in their political relationship, with upcoming matches potentially impacting diplomatic discussions. The exploration of these dynamics sheds light on the complex history of both nations.
May 21, 2025 • 22min
Why India fights Pakistan
Geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan recently overshadowed a cricket match, highlighting the intersection of sports and conflict. The rich history of the Kashmir dispute is delved into, from 1947 struggles to modern-day hostilities. A violent incident involving a tourist adds a chilling layer to the perception of safety in Kashmir. Meanwhile, powerful factions in both countries weigh the political benefits of war, raising the stakes in this fraught rivalry. The underlying complexities of their shared history shape their future.
May 20, 2025 • 20min
Howard Lutnick and The Gates of Hell
Explore the emotional aftermath of 9/11 through the lens of Howard Lutnick and Cantor Fitzgerald’s tragic loss. Discover the intriguing connection between this disaster and Auguste Rodin's masterpiece, The Gates of Hell, which remains missing. The conversation dives into art's ability to resonate with human experience, contrasting historical sculptures with contemporary tragedy. Plus, uncover the mystery of artwork lost in the rubble, touching on ethical dilemmas of ownership and legacy. Who knew a tragic event could spark such fascinating discussions?
